Nathan Marek is taking over the Springdale High School wrestling program, and he’s bringing six years of college coaching experience with him.
The 29-year-old was announced as the new head coach Wednesday on the school’s Facebook page. Marek spent the past three years as head coach at Carl Albert State College in Poteau, Oklahoma, where he took over a program that had gone 3-17 his first season and turned it into a regional contender.
“I’m excited,” Marek said. “They were super-supportive for wrestling and the culture. The community around Springdale is very tight-knit, very working class, tough. Those are the kids I like working with.”
Marek connected with Springdale assistant athletic director Eric Burnett about the opening and said the interview process convinced him this was the right move.
His philosophy aligns with the kind of student-athlete he enjoys coaching — kids who may not have had all the advantages growing up. Marek pointed to his time at the junior college level as a big reason he pursued this opportunity.
“It’s also one of the reasons I was coaching JUCO — kind of give those kids who either don’t have the money or the opportunities growing up,” he said. “My philosophy around the program and coaching, it just lined up really well.”
The move marks a return to Arkansas for Marek, who has roots in the wrestling community here. Carl Albert State College competes in the NJCAA, and under his leadership, the program developed several regional champions.
“I was super-stocked when they offered me the job,” Marek added. “It’s been bittersweet leaving Carl Albert. I’ve been here for three years, and we have a really tough schedule in the Opry.”
Springdale’s wrestling program has a strong tradition in the 6A West conference, and the hire signals the district is looking for someone who can build on that foundation while connecting with the community.
Marek takes over a program that has produced multiple state qualifiers in recent years. He’ll begin his duties immediately as the Bulldogs look to build momentum heading into the 2026-27 season.
Source: NWA Democrat Gazette
